Journal Snatchers Turn Reputable Academic Titles into Predatory Publications

Research integrity analysts have uncovered a disturbing trend: companies are acquiring reputable scholarly journals and transforming them into predatory publications with questionable practices. A recent study identified at least 36 journals that underwent this transformation after being purchased by a network of newly established international companies. These journals, previously indexed by databases like Scopus, were acquired for hundreds of thousands of euros each. Post-acquisition, the journals often increased article-processing charges, dramatically increased publication volume, and published papers outside their original scope, hallmarks of predatory publishing. While some companies deny the allegations, the lack of transparency and the absence of ownership information on journal websites raise serious concerns about academic integrity and the need for stronger regulation.